St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Malmesbury has appointed a new headteacher, bringing extensive experience from the independent sector to the Wiltshire school.
Nick Morrell has taken up the role and says he is excited to build on the school’s strong foundations while exploring new opportunities for pupils and the wider community.
“I’m delighted to be at the helm at St Joseph’s,” he said. “The school is in great shape but there’s much more we can do here, from reviewing our branding to refreshing the most magical piece of land down by the river and making sure our children get the best opportunities.”
Mr Morrell has already been getting to know the local community and recently joined pupils in opening a new show home in Malmesbury.
“The children were wonderfully inquisitive,” he said. “They asked the builders everything from how many bricks were used to who chose the wallpaper.”
Situated on a historic site close to Malmesbury’s town walls, St Joseph’s also has a growing nursery welcoming children from the age of two.
The nursery shares facilities with the main school, including the playground, mud kitchen and forest school areas. This allows children to remain within a familiar community of friends and staff as they move through their early education.
“The nursery is still growing and I’m really looking forward to welcoming more children through the door in the coming months,” Mr Morrell added.
Most of his career has been spent in the independent sector, most recently as Deputy Head at Beaudesert Park School in Minchinhampton. Before that he spent eight years as Deputy Head (Academic) at Westminster Cathedral Choir School.
During that time he helped oversee a liberal arts curriculum designed to help pupils make connections across subjects.
“A firm grasp of maths and English in the early years underpins a high degree of cultural literacy further up the school,” he explained. “I hope to bring that spirit to St Joseph’s by building on the school’s existing reputation for music and art.”
When he first visited the school, Mr Morrell said he was struck by the strong sense of community.
“The staff know every single child as individuals – their interests, what they enjoy about school and even what they prefer to eat,” he said. “I’m passionate about a holistic approach that helps children reach their academic potential while nurturing their creativity and social awareness.”
One of the school’s most distinctive features is its riverside setting, something Mr Morrell hopes to develop further as part of outdoor learning.
Outdoor education can help improve physical health, concentration and creativity, while also helping children build resilience and confidence.
The grounds also include the historic ‘Nun’s Walk’, which runs along the edge of Malmesbury’s ancient town walls and connects the school with nearby St Aldhelm’s Church.
Mr Morrell added that he is looking forward to leading the school into its next chapter and welcoming families to visit.
Families interested in finding out more about St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School can arrange a visit by contacting the school office on 01666 822331.
